Alabama State aims to assert its contender credentials against Southern University
On Saturday evening, the Alabama State Hornets and Southern University Jaguars will square off in a highly anticipated matchup that is poised to answer many questions about their standings in the SWAC West. This will mark the first time these two teams have met since 2023.
The game, set to kick off at 7 PM EST, will be broadcast on ESPN+. Alabama State, under the guidance of quarterback Andrew Body, has found a new identity and is positioning themselves as a true second-tier contender in the SWAC West, right behind Jackson State. Southern University, on the other hand, may face challenges in the upcoming weeks due to the lack of a true dual-threat quarterback.
Andrew Body's standout performance against UAB should serve as excellent tape for NFL scouts. In that game, he completed 18 of 24 passes for 312 yards and four touchdowns, and rushed for 119 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries. This impressive showing, considering the talent gap between FBS and FCS teams, particularly at the line of scrimmage and in the skill positions, has raised expectations for the Hornets.
Southern University's success relies on a prolific running game, but the lack of a quarterback who can threaten defenses on third-and-long or with play-action passes could prove to be a potential liability against solid teams like Alabama State. Trey Holly, who had a quiet game with 29 yards in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge, may have to lead the offense in place of Jalen Woods.
Alabama State head coach Eddie Robinson Jr. is widely respected for his defensive mind, but the offense has been a question mark for the team. However, with Body's return, the offense appears to have found its rhythm, positioning the Hornets as a formidable opponent.
In a past game, Alabama State's defense did an exceptional job of holding Jackson State's high-powered offense in check for most of the contest. Southern University, on the other hand, struggled in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge.
The exact kickoff time for the game between Alabama State and Southern University is not available in the provided search results. Alabama State has not been a contender in the SWAC Championship race in recent seasons, cementing themselves as a clear number three behind Jackson State and Florida A&M. Southern University, however, has won the SWAC West division crown for two of the past three seasons.
This game between Alabama State and Southern University will undoubtedly provide an exciting and competitive matchup, with both teams looking to make a statement in the SWAC West. Predictions for the game favour Alabama State, but with the unpredictable nature of football, anything can happen on the field.
